Best Captain Barry Sadler Podcasts (2025)

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IMO Net Zero 2025 - does it have teeth and can it bite? 33:41

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4d ago33:41

33:41

The IMO Net-Zero Framework is a landmark step toward regulating and pricing maritime GHG emissions globally. It marries technical fuel intensity standards with financial penalties and incentives, with the aim of shifting the industry toward cleaner energy. But its eventual effectiveness hinges on how ambitious the final numerical targets are, how r…

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Another Storm Season Begins 25:51

11d ago25:51

25:51

Heavy weather significantly disrupts maritime operations, increasing risks, costs, and delays for both ships and ports. Vessels face higher fuel consumption, mechanical strain, and potential hull or cargo damage, while ports often suspend pilotage and cargo handling due to unsafe conditions, leading to congestion and demurrage. These disruptions ra…

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Williams Shipping - The Wildiscover - 131 Years in the Making. 33:00

21d ago33:00

33:00

In 1894 George Williams gave up his career working on windjammers to set up his own business. Aged 30 George acquired a small pinnace which was being sold by the Royal Navy. He rigged a sail and brought the vessel to Hythe on the banks of Southampton Water. He set to work and converted the boat into a small sailing barge which was able to carry up …

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Vessel Traffic Something? 30:36

1M ago30:36

30:36

In the UK, Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) operate at different levels depending on navigational risk. Active VTS centres (e.g. London, Southampton, Humber) provide information, navigational assistance, and traffic organisation, with legally binding authority over vessel movements. Passive VTS are also official SOLAS-mandated services but limited to …

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Forecast Podcast Broadcast. 31:57

2M ago31:57

31:57

Weather forecasting is the science of predicting atmospheric conditions based on real-time observations and mathematical models. Using data from satellites, radar, weather stations, and aircraft, modern forecast models simulate how the atmosphere will evolve. Short-term forecasts (1–3 days) are generally accurate, while longer-range predictions bec…

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Abandon Seafarer! 28:09

2M ago28:09

28:09

The trend in seafarer abandonment is clearly escalating. From an already catastrophic record in 2024, the situation continues to deteriorate in 2025—both in scale and severity. Key regions, flags of convenience, and weak enforcement remain persistent contributors to the crisis. 2024 marked a grim milestone, becoming the worst year on record for sea…

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When Regattas Co-Habit with ULCCs. 28:48

2M ago28:48

28:48

Cowes Week stands unmatched in its scale among recreational sailing events—instantly recognisable by its hundreds of competing yachts, thousands of sailors, and tens of thousands of spectators. Approaching its 200th anniversary this major sailing event takes place within the Solent every year. The organisation of such a large regatta requires early…

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Unmanned Surface Vessel Port Bow! 27:54

3M ago27:54

27:54

The journey of autonomous ships has been marked by decades of technological innovation, cautious regulation, and bold experimentation. From early remote-controlled submarines to intelligent, oceangoing cargo ships, the evolution of MASS continues to accelerate. The future of shipping will likely include a hybrid model—where human expertise and mach…

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The Critical 2025 Milestone in Ship-breaking 38:32

3M ago38:32

38:32

The Hong Kong Convention (HKC) was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2009 to ensure that ships, when recycled at the end of their life, do not pose risks to human health, safety, or the environment. It was created in response to unsafe and polluting shipbreaking practices, especially in South Asia. After years of delay, th…

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Suez - The Modern Crisis 28:32

4M ago28:32

28:32

The Suez Canal is a 193-kilometre (120-mile) artificial waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea at Port Said in the north to the Red Sea at Suez in the south. Completed in 1869, it allows ships to transit between Europe and Asia without circumnavigating Africa via the Cape of Good Hope, reducing voyage times by approximately 8,000–10,00…

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Containership Fires - The Heat is ON. 37:04

4M ago37:04

37:04

Containership fires pose significant dangers due to the complex nature of cargo stowage, the vast quantities of goods onboard, and the difficulty of accessing and extinguishing fires deep within container stacks. These fires often involve hazardous materials, such as chemicals, batteries, or flammable goods, which may be misdeclared or improperly s…

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Tunnel Talk - The Mighty(ish) Bow Thruster 28:00

5M ago28:00

28:00

A bow thruster is a transversal propulsion device installed in the forward (bow) section of a ship, allowing it to move laterally (sideways) without forward motion. It is especially valuable for low-speed manoeuvres such as berthing, unberthing, or holding position in dynamic positioning (DP) systems. While it greatly aids ship handling, it comes w…

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The Pilot as the Masters Aide - Beyond MPX 29:34

5M ago29:34

29:34

When a pilot steps on board, two experts meet—each with a distinct role and vital knowledge. But how well that knowledge is shared can mean the difference between a smooth berthing and a costly incident. Whether you're a seasoned master mariner, an experienced pilot, or just starting your journey at sea, this blog unpacks the procedures, challenges…

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Is this the IMO's GHG Silver Bullet? 31:05

6M ago31:05

31:05

The global shipping industry is responsible for transporting over 80% of world trade by volume, but it also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In response to environmental concerns, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced various measures to reduce the carbon footprint of ships. Among the most critical…

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Transverse Thrust - Friend or Foe...? 25:33

6M ago25:33

25:33

A ship’s propeller is a marvel of marine engineering — a seemingly simple rotating device that plays a vital role in moving massive vessels across oceans. At its core, a ship's propeller converts rotational power from the ship’s engine into thrust, propelling the vessel forward or backward through water. A ship’s propeller works by spinning its bla…

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The Colossal Climb: The Evolution of Containership Size from the 1980s to Today 23:46

6M ago23:46

23:46

In the world of global trade, few symbols capture the scale and efficiency of modern logistics like the containership. These vast floating warehouses are responsible for transporting 90% of the world’s goods, and over the past four decades, they have undergone a dramatic transformation in size and capacity. From the modest vessels of the 1980s to t…

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Lookout! You're Breaking the Rules 25:15

7M ago25:15

25:15

On March 10, 2025, a significant maritime collision occurred in the North Sea, approximately 12 miles off the coast of East Yorkshire, England. The Portuguese-flagged container ship MV Solong collided with the US-flagged oil tanker MV Stena Immaculate, which was anchored at the time. The impact led to both vessels catching fire and resulted in the …

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The Med Joins the ECA Squad 28:43

7M ago28:43

28:43

The designation of the Mediterranean Sea as an Emission Control Area (ECA), effective May 1, 2025, represents a significant advancement in reducing air pollution from maritime activities in the region. As of this date, all vessels operating within the Mediterranean Sea are required to use marine fuels with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10% mas…

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Vehicle Carrier Fires - Lithium is their Kryptonite! 27:16

7M ago27:16

27:16

The risk of fires on car carriers, particularly roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessels, has become a growing concern in the maritime industry. Several recent incidents, including those involving Grimaldi Group vessels, have highlighted the unique challenges posed by transporting vehicles at sea. The increasing frequency and severity of these fires raise …

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Captain's Dilemma - Paper Cargoes 23:48

8M ago23:48

23:48

The carriage of paper rolls at sea requires careful consideration to prevent cargo damage and ensure vessel stability. Paper rolls are highly sensitive to moisture, physical damage, and shifting during transit. Putting to sea in heavy weather can bring about hidden problems with such sensitive cargoes. As he goes about his pilot duties Barry is luc…

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When the UN Requires Maritime Investigation. 25:39

8M ago25:39

25:39

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is an international treaty that establishes a comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the world's oceans. Often referred to as the "Constitution of the Oceans," it outlines the rights and responsibilities of nations regarding the use of maritime resources and the protection of…

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Pilot Launch Coxswain 13:07

8M ago13:07

13:07

Boarding pilots 12 miles off Portsmouth in all kinds of weathers is a developed skill. Launch coxswains are directly responsible for the safety of all aboard their launch and ultimately have the unenviable job of coaxing in ships to board them. Barry talks to Paul Tomlinson - a 27 year veteran of pilot launch driving - about the challenges faced by…

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Electric Shock or Enclosed Space - both are lethal! 18:34

9M ago18:34

18:34

Enclosed space accidents on ships typically involve asphyxiation, toxic gas exposure, or falls due to lack of oxygen. These incidents occur in spaces like cargo holds, ballast tanks, fuel tanks, pump rooms, and void spaces. However a recent report by the MAIB into the electrocution of a chief engineer on a super-yacht highlights some concerning iss…

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The Trump Maritime Orders 17:27

9M ago17:27

17:27

In a series of recent executive actions, U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited discussions surrounding American influence in key maritime corridors. His policies concerning the "Gulf of America" and the Panama Canal have sparked geopolitical tensions and raised questions about global trade stability. One of Trump’s most controversial proposals …

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The Dark Fleet 14:59

9M ago14:59

14:59

In the vast and sometimes unregulated expanse of the world’s oceans, a clandestine network of vessels operates beyond the reach of international law. These ships, commonly referred to as the “dark fleet”, navigate global waters without a legitimate flag state, engaging in activities that range from sanctions evasion to illicit trade, environmental …

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Seafaring Generations 20:26

9M ago20:26

20:26

Society has labelled the generations starting from the Silent Generation in the 1920's to the latest generation - known as Generation Alpha. They have been labelled based upon their socio, economic and technological place in history. But how do these generations relate to our seafarers? Barry discusses some of the possible traits of seafarers base …

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Nibbling Away at Digital Obstacles - SOLAS 24 Changes 28:57

10M ago28:57

28:57

Ongoing digitisation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System forms a significant part of the new standards being enforced under SOLAS 24. With these changes comes a further recognition of the importance of incorporating data and AI into the everyday tasks faced by seafarers. The expediency of alerting authorities and other vessels when ur…

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Coming into Effect in 5 days! Marine Pollution Special Area - The Red Sea 14:56

10M ago14:56

14:56

Whilst the Red Sea was designated a special area under the International Convention for Preventing Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) and was adopted as such in 1973, the restrictions on the discharge of oil were yet to come into effect. Although signatory states were required to enforce the restrictions, they do not come into effect until 1st January 2…

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Another Windy Day - Another High Risk Manoeuvre 24:44

10M ago24:44

24:44

The number of windy days seems to be increasing. Risk assessments can deal with limits and measures, but what’s it like berthing a ship right on those limits? Barry discusses where the risks can quickly escalate, what to look out for and what it’s like to use tugs on high power. With 24 years piloting experience Barry is able to talk in depth about…

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Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas 9:23

10M ago9:23

9:23

Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas or PSSAs have been identified by the IMO and listed on their website. But what are they - why do we have them and what needs to be done? Captain Barry discusses these areas and gives examples of where they can be found and what precautions are taken by International shipping in recognition of the special status of t…

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IMSBC Code - The Upcoming Amendments 9:38

11M ago9:38

9:38

The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code sets out the mandatory standards for the safe carriage of solid bulk cargoes. This code is essential for preventing accidents at sea related to the transport of solid bulk materials. The latest amendments, coming into force on January 1, 2025, include updated provisions to enhance the safet…

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MLC 2024 Ammendments 18:24

11M ago18:24

18:24

The Maritime Labour Convention came into force in August 2013. Since then there have been subtle but accumulating changes to the original text which have sought to enhance the rights of seafarers. 2024 sees more changes coming into effect from the 23rd December including the provision of internet. In a world of connectivity this basic right has so …

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Red Sea Tragedy - A Bad Trend Indeed. 15:37

11M ago15:37

15:37

The 'Sea Story' was a 'large yacht' style ship that acted as a base for dive activities in the Red Sea. It had cabins onboard for 36 guests and 18 crew. It tragically capsized off the Egyptian Coast on the 25th November 2024. She capsized suddenly in heavy weather with the loss of at least four lives. She wasn't the only super yacht to do this unex…

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The Watercraft Order 9:35

11M ago9:35

9:35

In this episode Barry discusses the implications of the 2023 Watercraft Order and how it affects smaller vessels as well as those on larger ships navigating around them. It discusses the wider implication of the order and how this may affect yacht clubs running races as well as reassuring professionals that the full law applying to UK Ships now app…